In the shade of the porticoes - 1st section: Santa Caterina and Saragozza

The linteled porticoes of Via Santa Caterina and the spacious examples of Via Saragozza are a precious historical testimony that transcends the centuries through to the present day.

The first UNESCO section we explore in Bologna is that of the Porticoes of Via Santa Caterina and Via Saragozza, which accompany visitors on a journey of humbleness and spirituality

The Portico of Via Santa Caterina was built during the 14th and 15th centuries to protect passers-by from the sun and rain. It also served as a shelter for pilgrims on their way to nearby churches. For many centuries this road, hidden among the less busy streets, was an important route to the monasteries and religious facilities in the area, such as Santa Caterina di Strada Maggiore, from which it takes its name.

The Portico of Via Santa Caterina features a sheltered and intimate atmosphere, thanks to its low arches and stone columns alternating with masonry-built sections. The simple medieval vaults maintain its original charm intact, revealing parts that are still in wood. It is mainly frequented by residents and university students, who find in this street a more peaceful alternative route compared to the bustling central areas.

Continuing south, you reach the widest and busiest porticoes of Via Saragozza. This section of portico, situated inside the city walls, gained its current appearance between 1861 and 1865, when the Municipality ordered the construction of imposing buildings to house the working classes. The ground floor of these structures continued the porticoed profile of the pre-existing building.

The section ends at the Porta Saragozza gate. Built in the 13th century and equipped with a drawbridge in 1334, this gate gained great importance in 1674 upon completion of the longest portico in the world: a porticoed pedestrian route that winds from here to the top of the Bolognese hills, where the Sanctuary of the Madonna di San Luca is located.

Today, the Portico of Via Saragozza is a dynamic location, frequented not only by those heading towards the Sanctuary of San Luca, but also by residents, sports and walking enthusiasts.

"In the shade of the porticoes" is the column that explores the twelve Porticoes of Bologna, recognised as a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 2021. In addition to offering insights into their history and architecture, the column also tells of the daily life of those who work, travel and live under those porticoes every day.